Quinoa, the beloved superfood with its nutty taste and impressive nutritional profile, takes the spotlight in this delightful Peruvian-inspired dish. “Quinotto with Corn and Peas” is a vibrant and comforting recipe that combines the earthy flavors of quinoa with the sweetness of corn and the freshness of peas. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body in the process.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a fine-mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold running water for a minute. This helps remove any bitter coating on the seeds.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the corn, peas, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. The fresh herb adds a burst of flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.
9. For an extra touch of richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the quinotto. The cheese adds a creamy and salty element that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Serve your Quinotto with Corn and Peas warm in bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of cilantro or cheese if desired. This dish is a versatile canvas that you can customize to your liking. Feel free to add extra vegetables, protein sources like tofu or grilled chicken, or even a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick.
Enjoy the satisfying blend of textures and tastes in this hearty Quinotto, a dish that brings a taste of the Peruvian culinary tradition to your home. Whether you are a devoted quinoa fan or looking to try something new, this recipe is a wonderful way to add some international flair to your dining table.
